Passengers to keep liquids in hand luggage under Edinburgh Airport trial

A new security lane will be opened in November to test the equipment, with Glasgow Airport also planning a trial.

It follows Heathrow Airport announcing it would be the first UK airport to test the technology and will spend £50 million on the computer tomography (CT) devices over the next three years.

The technology, already used in hospitals for CT scans, can provide clear, 3D images of cabin baggage.

UK aviation minister Baroness Vere (centre) with a Heathrow Airport staff member and chief executive John Holland-Kaye beside a new CT scanner. Picture: Heathrow Airport

Passengers using Edinburgh's new security lane will not have to pack liquids in a transparent bag or take them out of their cabin baggage to pass through security.

It is hoped this will cut security queues and reduce plastic use, with the new lane being added to the existing six.

However, there will be no relaxation of the 100ml bottles limit for the time being, although it is thought this could be eventually raised.

A spokesman said: “We’ll be trialling this new technology later in the year.

"We hope if it is successful we can see an improvement to the passenger experience.

"As always, the security of our passengers and staff is paramount.”

Glasgow Airport said it was also looking to launch a trial ahead of introducing CT scanners by the same date.

A spokesman said: "It's in our plans."

The trial is being run under the direction of the UK Department for Transport.

Aviation minister Baroness Vere said: "Passenger safety remains our top priority and this programme clearly shows the huge importance we place on security.

"This innovative new equipment will ensure Heathrow continues to provide a safe and smooth travel experience for passengers, as we look to roll out this new screening technology at airports across the country."